Exercise and Cognitive Function

Exercise By Richard Shank

Researchers at Iowa State University recently performed a randomized clinical trial in order to examine the benefit that physical exercise can have on cognitive performance. They came upon two key findings: that aerobic exercise in older adults can improve cognitive performance, especially tasks designed to test the brain’s executive functions. In addition, they discovered that cardio-respiratory improvements were not necessary for enhancements in brain function.

This study was part of a larger randomized clinical trial on the effects of exercise on immune function. In all, 109 older adults participated in the study, all of whom were randomly selected and placed into two experimental groups (cardiovascular exercise group vs. flexibility and strength training group). Both groups exercised 3 times per week for 10 months.

Only the cardio-fitness group showed improvements in measurements designed to assess executive control. However, neither group demonstrated gains in cognitive tasks requiring little cognitive function.

In summary, fitness programs geared toward older adults can expect to have cognitive benefits for participants who perform regular cardio-fitness routines.

Smiley-Oyen, A.L., Lowry, K., Francoise, S., Kohut, M., & Ekkekakis, P. (2008). Exercise, fitness, and neurocognitive function in older adults: The "selective improvement" and "cardiovascular fitness" hypotheses. Annals of Behavioral Medicine, 36, 280-291.

Comments? Tell us what you think: askaia@matherlifeways.com